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Be A SmartyPants: How to Avoid Vitamin D Deficiency

Happy Meatless Monday and first Monday of December! I don’t know where you live but here in the Northeast the weather tends to get gloomy (and cold) around this time of year and pretty much stay that way for the next several (like six) months. While I’m a veteran when it comes to the cold and snowy weather at this point, I always feel the effects of the lack of sunlight during winter months.

It make me feel tired and just blah but not just because of the gloom, it also has a little something to do with not getting enough vitamin D and I know I’m not alone. While I can’t remember the exact statistic, I think it’s something like 80% of the population where I live is vitamin D deficient and it all has to do with being deprived of vitamin D which Mr. Sunshine is responsible for producing.

So, what to do when winter comes around and the sun doesn’t want to come out and play? While hopping on a jet to the tropics might sound tempting, here are a few cheaper tips that help to avoid vitamin D deficiency.

TIPS TO AVOID VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY

INCORPORATE OILY FISH INTO YOUR DIET

Aside from the sun, one of the next best sources of vitamin D is from oily/fatty fish. Fish such as salmon, trout, herring and even sardines contain nearly an entire day’s adequate intake of vitamin D. Just be mindful to choose a fatty fish that is lower in mercury such as salmon or trout as other fatty fish such as mackerel and tuna tend to have higher levels of mercury.

CHOOSE FORTIFIED MILKS AND JUICES

For those of you that can have dairy, choose cow milk that is fortified with vitamin D. Actually, even if you drink dairy free milk, you can still find some that are also fortified with vitamin D particularly certain almond and soy milks. If you don’t do dairy or aren’t a fan of milk in general you can also find a lot of orange juices that are also fortified with vitamin D such as Florida’s Natural Orange Juice.

While I don’t drink cow’s milk, I do use almond milk in my smoothies so I decided to combine both almond milk and fortified orange juice for an extra boost of daily vitamin D with this Creamsicle Smoothie recipe!

TAKE A SUPPLEMENT

For those of us who live in regions where the sun rarely shines, taking a supplement is another way to get the vitamin D that you need. Unfortunately, that tends to turn into more of a chore a times especially if it’s just another pill to swallow. Thankfully, SmartyPants makes delicious gummy vitamins that not only taste yummy but they’re also a 4 in 1 multivitamin that includes vitamin D3, Omega 3s EPA &DHA and vitamin B12.

I have been taking the adult version for the last several months and recently ran out- I have to say that I not only looked forward to taking them but I felt better too! These vitamins are also available in a children’s version which I just so happen to be giving away today!

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About me

Annmarie is a self proclaimed foodie, avid long distance runner and functional fitness coach. A DVRT Master Trainer, HKC Instructor and food allergy sufferer, she writes about strength training for runners as well as shares allergy friendly recipes for busy athletes.
She is also the owner of Strength In Motion Studio, mother of two sassy sisters and wife to a chronically busy chiropractor.
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Cheryl

You're not alone. My primary care provider detected my Vitamin D deficiency over a year ago. I take high-dose supplements weekly this time of year, and daily lower-dose supplements in the spring and summer. I also started light therapy this year.

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Deborah @ Confessions of a Mother Runner

Even in the wintertime, I have to get outside and get a little sun and vitamin D! Thanks for linking up today have a great weekDeborah @ Confessions of a Mother Runner recently posted...Ratatouille Soup-Meatless Monday

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Debbie @ Coach Debbie Runs

Even though I live in a sunny place, I still have to supplement vitamin D. Creamsicle is one of my favorite flavors (and memories).Debbie @ Coach Debbie Runs recently posted...The Ultimate Vegan Lifestyle Gift Guide

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Mary Long

Vit D is a huge issue for me. I have a deficiency so I take 4000 IU a day. One symptom of a lack of D is joint pain. I know within a day if I forget to take it. I feel so much better when I remember - Haha. Also, 15 minute of sun in the morning ( without sunscreen ) will give you what your body needs for the day.

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Crystal Renaud

I am going to have to try that smoothie! My post tomorrow is about smoothies! I love them and will never get sick of them! Happy Monday!Crystal Renaud recently posted...Don't Throw Santa Under The Bus!

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Mary Beth Jackson

Your creamcicle smoothie looks spot on! great nfo! I thin this Florida girl is good with the vitamin D but we get in a funk down here if it is gloomy for more than 2 days! I know, spoiled :)Mary Beth Jackson recently posted...This St. Augustine Diva is back!

Pamela @ Brooklyn Farm Girl

Jess @hellotofit

This smoothie recipe looks fantastic :) great way to beat the blues! If the sun hasn't come out in a few days, I feel so lethargic and a bit cranky.Jess @hellotofit recently posted...Why Secret Santa Gift Exchanges Give Me Joy

Janey

Hallo there Ann, Happy new year!
This cold season isn't usually the best for me as things tend to go rough when it comes to matters of health and I usually arm myself with supplements and organic vitamins.
I have heard of some good things about Smarty and perhaps it's time I give it a try.
Thanks for sharing.